Agatu council chairman bans logging over rising insecurity

By Abdullahi Lukman.
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Mr. Melvin Ejeh, has announced an immediate and total ban on all logging activities in Agatu West, citing growing security threats linked to illegal forest operations.
Ejeh said the ban is a proactive response to escalating insecurity in the region, which he attributed largely to unregulated logging.
According to him, the activities of loggers have caused significant environmental damage and created hideouts for criminal elements.
“The decision to impose this ban is informed by the alarming rate of insecurity that has plagued our area,” Ejeh stated.
“Unregulated logging has not only degraded our forests but also enabled criminal activity, worsening the safety of our communities.”
The chairman emphasized that the policy takes effect immediately and is non-negotiable.
All logging operations now require direct clearance from the office of the local government chairman.
Ejeh also highlighted the environmental benefits of the ban, stating it would help preserve natural resources for future generations.
He urged residents to comply fully and report any unauthorized logging to local authorities.
“Your cooperation and vigilance are crucial,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and will continue to take decisive action to protect our communities.”
Violators of the ban will face legal consequences, the chairman warned.